Transport Minister Shane Ross at the opening of the M17/M18 today.
Transport Minister Shane Ross at the opening of the M17/M18 today.

It’s a week full of new beginnings as this fledgling news company was among the first to test out the brand new M17/M18 Gort to Tuam motorway today.
Transport Minister Shane Ross was on hand to cut the ribbon, as well as managing to completely rip the red curtain off the commemorative plaque he was unveiling!
One of the attending dignitaries quipped that this was a sign of Mr Ross’s strength as a minister.
During his speech, Minister Ross referred to the new drink driving rules currently under consideration by the government.
He said he was determined that the new rules would not have an adverse effect on the rural communities of Ireland.
When questioned about the lack of public transport options in Co Clare, Minister Ross said the issue would “be considered in the Mid-Term Capital Review”.
The new 57km route will be open to motorists from 4pm today.
By Elaine Tubridy

Related News

michael lorigan 1
Michael Lorigan 'endured an undeserved, senseless and tragic death' as widow recalls how couple's 39th wedding anniversary day turned to tragedy
saoirse lillis mcmahon 2
Drunk mother had two young children in car and open bottle of wine on passenger seat when striking and killing 'gifted' teacher and cyclist, Michael Lorigan
clarecastle post office
Big win for Clarecastle to keep post office in the village
Photograph by Eamon Ward
New Fossil Sharks Discovered in the Burren
Latest News
clare gaa masters 1
Clare Masters begin new campaign
clare vs waterford u20 25-03-26 joe casey 1
Casey & Moylan chief injury concerns for Clare U20s ahead of Munster final
clare vs cork u20 06-05-26 robert loftus 1
'We've shown character now we want silverware' - Clare U20s out for glory
saoirse lillis mcmahon 2
Drunk mother had two young children in car and open bottle of wine on passenger seat when striking and killing 'gifted' teacher and cyclist, Michael Lorigan
clarecastle post office
Big win for Clarecastle to keep post office in the village
Premium
Big win for Clarecastle to keep post office in the village
'It's knockout now' - Madden disappointed as Clare fall flat in Tailteann opener
Three-way tie at top of Cusack Cup amid big confusion over Kilmurry Ibrickane & Éire Óg result
Mills only unbeaten side in Clare Cup & Éire Óg pick up first win of 2026
Kerry knock out Clare of minor football championship

Annual Subscription!

The Clare Echo annual subscription for just €69.99 a year. 

Prefer to pay monthly? Click the monthly option and get the first six months for just €3 a month (less than 75c per week), and thereafter €8 per month. 

Cancel anytime, limited time offer. T&Cs Apply. www.clareecho.ie.